SQL Server on virtual machines needs deliberate CPU, memory, NUMA, and storage settings; learn what to inspect before blaming a slow query.
Incorrect Syntax Near: When Compatibility Level Is the Cause
Incorrect syntax near means the parser met a word it did not expect, and a low compatibility level is one cause. This post reproduces the error, shows how to read and raise the level, and covers the other common causes.
SQL SERVER – Transaction and Local Variables – Swap Variables – Update All At Once Concept
Two ideas with examples: transactions have no effect on local variables, and an UPDATE applies all its changes at once, which lets you Swap Variables in one go.
SQL SERVER – Introduction to CLR – Simple Example of CLR Stored Procedure
An introduction to CLR in SQL Server 2005 and later, with a simple CLR Stored Procedure built in Visual Studio that prints the current system datetime.
SQL SERVER – Retrieve – Select Only Date Part From DateTime – Best Practice – Part 2
Which way to select only date part from DATETIME is faster? After more tests on large tables, I now suggest the DATEADD and DATEDIFF method over CONVERT.
SQL SERVER – Get Common Records From Two Tables Without Using Join
Sachin wanted common records from two tables without writing a join condition. Imran Mohammed shows how INTERSECT in SQL Server 2005 does it.
Closure Table: Read and Validate Hierarchy Paths
A closure table stores ancestor and descendant paths. Read those relationships efficiently and compare them with the authoritative parent edges.